This is a collaborative post: Are you a mum on the go who is constantly juggling the kids, their itineraries, and your own needs? Well, you’re not alone! Because of the pandemic, more families — specifically, mums — are feeling the effects of having to balance it all.
And just because you have a million things on your day-to-day itinerary, doesn’t mean you can’t carve out time to make sure that your cup is filled before everyone else’s. Mums are truly incredible, as they seamlessly balance everything while also being caretakers. Being a mum is so hectic, which can often leave any mum feeling frazzled. However, we want to help all of the badass mums out there feel like their best selves. From feeling confident in your favourite outfit to finding time to read that riveting book, you deserve some time to yourself.
We put together a guide that can help any frazzled mum feel unstoppable with a few simple steps. If you’re debating whether or not you have time to fold these steps into your daily activities, we are granting you permission to prioritize yourself so that you can start your days feeling refreshed and resilient.
Source: Nina Buday
Boost Confidence with a Great Outfit, Quickly
We believe — and studies show — that when you look good you feel good. And while “looking good” may have a different definition for everyone, wearing an outfit you love is sure to give you a huge confidence boost. What we wear closely correlates with our mood. So, it only makes sense that a great outfit could be the start of feeling like you can accomplish it all.
Between getting everyone fed and off to school, while also juggling all of the things you need to get done, picking out an outfit may not be a priority. Here are a few tips to make sure you pick the right outfit and set yourself up for success.
- Plan an Outfit the Night Before – If you want to make sure you put on an outfit that makes you feel fabulous, make sure you plan out an outfit before you go to bed. This may be the only few minutes you have to yourself, but planning ahead can make a huge difference when it comes to your confidence and mood for the next day.
- Identify Clothing You Feel Incredible In – What do you love to wear? Whether it’s yoga pants or jeans, or tactical pants for women, organize your closet in a way that all of your favorite and cute plus-size clothes are front and center. In case you ever have to select an outfit in a hurry, the outfits you love to wear will be readily available. This eliminates any possibility of you just throwing something on that doesn’t make you feel radiant.
- Invest in Good Loungewear – As a mum on the go, you’ll need plus-size loungewear sets that hug every curve just right and can be dressed up or down to be worn at home and out to run errands. Today, loungewear also makes for trendy streetwear, which is ideal for the busy mum. Not only will you feel comfortable all day, but you’ll also look put together.
- Get Comfortable in Your Own Skin – If you are finding yourself wanting to embrace your body more and trying out new clothing styles, spend some time getting to know the body positivity movement. This movement has completely changed the way women see their bodies, by encouraging one to accept their body the way it is. Learning about this movement could help you feel more confident embracing the trends you want to wear.
Map Out Your Day
We know that being a mum comes with unpredictable days, but if you are looking for more control and structure, having a schedule can help you feel like you can take on whatever the day throws at you. By structuring your days down to the hour, you’re ensuring that you get everything you need to do done while also making room for things to pop up at the last minute. You’ll ultimately end up feeling more confident, which will skyrocket productivity.
Source: NazarBazar
Take a Deep Breath
Sometimes all we need to do is hit a metaphorical pause and breathe. As a mum, you may find yourself in many high-stress situations where you need to compartmentalize and delegate your emotions. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, give yourself permission to take a break and take a few deep breaths. You will be surprised at how effective breathing exercises are in reducing anxiety.
Carve Out “Me Time”
As a mum, it may be difficult to get time to yourself, but if your sleep schedule allows it, wake up a half-hour before everyone else to spend some quality time on yourself. While this is something you need to plan for and consistently hold yourself to, having this quality “you time” will leave you feeling refreshed throughout the day, meaning you will be less on edge than usual.
Create and Use a Mantra
Do you ever have those moments where your day gets the best of you and you feel yourself spiraling in negative thoughts? We all do! One way to curb these negative thoughts and instantly turn your mindset around is to recite positive affirmations or a mantra. Positive affirmations are words that can be said to help you change the narrative of your thoughts. These affirmations are very powerful and can quickly resolve any emotional or mental turmoil you may be experiencing. Next time you find yourself in a negative or defeating mindset, recite affirmations that remind you who you are. Some of our favorite positive affirmations and mantras are:
- I am confident, brave, beautiful and worthy.
- I give myself permission to do what is right for me.
- I practice patience.
- I experience this moment.
Source: Jacob Lund
You have the hardest job out there — especially today with the global pandemic — and it is incredibly important to take care of yourself first. While you’re out and about today, remember to take inventory of your emotions and how you are feeling. If you can, implement one or a few of these strategies into your routine to help you feel more confident and put together.